Cab swap

[SmokEaterHD]

I’ve been working on my ‘75 K20 a bit and am noticing the horrible patch job one of the previous owners did on the floor. Literally welded 1/4” flat stock to the floor and spray foamed the rest. So I was gonna just cut the whole floor out, rocks, cab corners and the metal split at the bottom of the back of the cab and fix it all. However, I came across another ‘75 K20 that is complete except for the bed and drivetrain. Guy wants $250 for it and says cab is solid, but doesn’t have a title. Which if it is as solid as he says would be cheaper than trying to patch mine together. How does that work? You can’t just swap VIN tags off the cab and still be legal correct? I’m hoping to get a good cab, some interior pieces that are missing, and maybe see what’s in better shape on the other frame that I can swap to mine such as spring hangers, etc. Then just scrap the rest. I’m in Missouri if that makes a difference. Thanks.

 

[HotRodPC]

Here's how that works, Do what you gotta do, keep your mouth shut and let's delete this post. You won't be the first. Keep in mind, DO NOT REPLACE THE RIVETS. You need to keep and use the same rivets. Your VIN tags are on the door post right? I don't recall for sure where it is for a 75 but I know it's not 17 digits.

 

[DanMcG]

Before you delete this, I came across and interesting video I'd like to share on vin tag removal and replacing. It's worth watching.
http://www.superchevy.com/videos/vin-plate-removal-and-replacement-12932/12932/

And a follow up link on the federal code;
https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/511

And I'm just the messenger, but I do have a truck with vin issues so I've been researching. But it will come down to your state DMV I'm sure.

 

[shiftpro]

You can buy rosette rivets online.

 

[roundhouse]

Don’t ask
Don’t tell

It’s like ripping that tag off your mattress

 

[theblindchicken]

I believe the vin is on the driver's door post. Also on top of driver's frame next to the steering box.

 

[Big Chip]

Before you delete this, I came across and interesting video I'd like to share on vin tag removal and replacing. It's worth watching.
http://www.superchevy.com/videos/vin-plate-removal-and-replacement-12932/12932/

And a follow up link on the federal code;
https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/511

And I'm just the messenger, but I do have a truck with vin issues so I've been researching. But it will come down to your state DMV I'm sure.

Good info!

 

[roundhouse]

I have a truck square with all the numbers ground off of everything
None on the engine. Trans frame or body

Has a state issued VIN plate Riveted in the door post , came with a title that had the state Issued VIN on it

Unless it’s done to facilitate some type of fraud or theft I wouldn’t worry about it

Just don’t talk about it

 

[Lostranger]

I've done cab swaps on several GM trucks through the years. I transferred the ID plates to new cabs and never had any problem in NC. YMMV

 

[Lostranger]

One of those cab swaps was a 67 GMC onto a 73 Chevy 3/4 ton. I had a title for the 67 but not for the 73. Kept the ID plate for the 67 and titled the composite as a 67. Was no problem.

 

[idahovette]

I have a truck square with all the numbers ground off of everything
None on the engine. Trans frame or body

Has a state issued VIN plate Riveted in the door post , came with a title that had the state Issued VIN on it

Unless it’s done to facilitate some type of fraud or theft I wouldn’t worry about it

Just don’t talk about it

Last sentence is all you need to know!!

 

[75gmck25]

Before you get carried away with a stealth swap, I would call the DMV and ask what it takes to do it legally. Sometimes it is not that complicated a process, since your goal is to keep the VIN you have for your truck. You just happen to be swapping in a new cab, which is where the VIN is located.

Bruce

 

[shiftpro]

The Black book value of these trucks is only worth a chicken sandwich so it's pretty tranquil.
And don't brag about it (except here hehe).

I've also discovered is really easy to change the vehicle 'details'. "Oh it says 2wheel drive but that's a mistake somehow, it's 4x4". Done.
"I painted it, it's now blue."
"Oh I forgot last time I renewed, I took the dual wheels off it's not a dually anymore."

At least here where I live.

Still have to get an inspection to insure a vehicle from out of province.